During and after a divorce, it is crucial for you to maintain your relationship with your child. It provides them with additional stability in a rocky time. It also ensures that your bond survives through this difficult situation.
Unfortunately, some parents will stop at nothing to ensure they break this bond. Such is the case in parental alienation. If your co-parent is trying to alienate you from your child, can you tell?
Your child’s temperament
Psychology Today examines the potential signs you may see in a child suffering from parental alienation. These signs often come on fast and without warning. Some involve your child’s disposition. For example, a once-cheery child could grow despondent or cranky. They may seem fussy for no reason. They could also exhibit signs of anxiety, though anger is largely the most common reaction.
Changes in how they perceive you
Next, children suffering from parental alienation often blame you for the smallest things. They suddenly take issue with the way you cook or clean. They complain about how you keep your house. They will nitpick and point out the tiniest flaw in whatever you do.
These children will often deny any involvement or input from your co-parent. Despite that, they will likely repeat things you can tell they heard from another source. This can include false information or true and private information that only your co-parent knows.
The only positive is that they are often easy to notice. Because of this, you can take quick action. If you notice any of these signs, consider speaking to a legal expert. They can advise you on what steps to take next.